Entertainment

The maths behind slot machine volatility

Published

2 weeks ago

April 30, 2026

WHILE the outcome of any slot machine is random and there’s no way to predict whether you will win or lose, there are a few factors that can affect how much or how often a slot machine pays out winnings.

So, let’s take a deeper look at slot machine volatility and how it can affect the gaming experience for players.

What is RTP?

Before we discuss volatility, it’s important to know another term: RTP. Return to player – typically referred to as RTP – is the percentage of all bets returned to players over a certain period of time.

Higher RTP slot machines generally provide better long-term value while lower RTP games favour the house more, but do tend to offer bigger jackpots and more engaging bonus features.

How Volatility Affects Slot Machines

Volatility refers to how much and how often a game pays out winnings. Even if two slot machines have the same RTP, they may still have very different results if their volatility levels aren’t the same. NetBet casino, for example, has tons of games with the same RTP, but the outcome of each may still vary wildly because of their volatility – this is something to keep in mind when choosing a slot machine.

Slots with high volatility pay out larger amounts less often, while slots with low volatility pay out more regularly, but in smaller amounts. This means long-term, they do have the same RTP, but from a short-term perspective, the upshot can be very different.

How RTP and Volatility Can Affect Gameplay

A game that pays out less frequently may sound less appealing, but for many people this just adds to the thrill of the game and makes winning feel more rewarding. Low RTP slots are typically more immersive and engaging too, catering to players who like a more stimulating gaming experience. Casual players, however, are more likely to favour the platforms that pay out more frequently.

Choose Your Platform Wisely

Before you even look at the games on offer, verifying the safety of your chosen casino is your primary priority. For those looking for online entertainment in Pembrokeshire, the relevant regulatory body is the UK Gambling Commission. You should only use platforms that hold a valid UKGC licence, as this ensures the operator follows strict consumer protection and fair play guidelines. Checking a site’s credentials takes only a few seconds: simply scroll to the footer of the webpage to find the UKGC logo and the operator’s account number. You can then search this number on the public register via the Gambling Commission website to confirm it is active.

Once you know the platform is regulated, you can start looking at your odds. While you cannot guarantee a win based on the Return to Player rate or volatility of a specific slot machine, understanding what these factors mean can help you make a more informed decision about which games suit your preferences.

The most important thing to remember is that no matter what kind of slot machine you choose, gambling responsibly is crucial. Slots are purely games of chance. Treat them as a form of entertainment rather than a way to make money. Always set strict budgets, take regular breaks, and never chase your losses. By managing your time and spending carefully, you ensure your gaming remains a safe and enjoyable experience.

Entertainment

Llys-y-frân Lake to launch Wales’s largest inflatable aqua park

Published

3 days ago

May 7, 2026

Tom Sinclair

NEW ATTRACTION WILL OPEN AT WEEKENDS BEFORE THE SUMMER HOLIDAYS

LLYS-Y-FRÂN Lake is set to make a splash this summer with the launch of what is being billed as Wales’s largest inflatable aqua park.

The new attraction, at the popular reservoir and visitor destination near Clarbeston Road, will feature a floating obstacle course with slides, launch towers, blast bags and other inflatable challenges.

Visitors will be able to enjoy one-hour sessions on the water, with safety equipment included in the £25 ticket price.

Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, which runs Llys-y-frân Lake, completed the acquisition of the aqua park from Aqua Parks Group in March. Work is now under way to inflate and anchor the multi-component course in the lake ahead of its opening.

The aqua park will open at weekends before the start of the six-week school holiday period. It will then operate daily during the school holidays, with the season expected to finish in early September.

James Thompson, Head of Visitor Attractions at Dŵr Cymru, said: “We are thrilled to announce the launch of an Aqua Park at Llys-y-frân Lake.

“We look forward to welcoming both holidaymakers and local residents from across West Wales and beyond to experience the Aqua Park.

“This new addition enables visitors to enjoy the water in a safe, fully lifeguarded environment.”

Llys-y-frân Lake, situated north of Haverfordwest in the foothills of the Preseli Mountains, has become one of West Wales’s best-known outdoor attractions.

The site, which includes 350 acres of woodland, grassland and open water, benefited from major investment in 2021 with the opening of a new visitor centre and activity centre. A four-star campsite was added in 2023.

Dŵr Cymru said environmental surveys had been carried out and indicated that the aqua park was unlikely to have a negative impact on local wildlife. The company said measures were being put in place to protect the lake’s habitats and species.

Recent inland bathing water assessments have also confirmed that Llys-y-frân Lake has excellent water quality. Welsh Water said monitoring would continue throughout the summer bathing season.

A community open day will be held at Llys-y-frân Visitor Centre on Sunday, May 17, from 11:00am to 3:00pm, where plans for the aqua park will be on display and staff will be available to answer questions.

The new attraction will add to the existing activities at Llys-y-frân, which include bike hire, walking and cycling trails, mountain bike routes, a pump track, lakeside café and gift shop.

Further updates on opening dates and the full summer timetable will be published on the Llys-y-frân Lake Facebook and Instagram pages.

Charity

Milford Haven Beer Fest set for Bank Holiday return

Published

4 days ago

May 6, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Festival promises live music, Welsh ales and community spirit at the waterfront

MILFORD HAVEN Beer Fest is set to return later this month, with organisers promising another packed day of live music, craft drinks and festival atmosphere.

The popular annual event will take place at Milford Waterfront on Saturday, May 23, inside the Ascona Group Marquee, with doors opening at 12:00pm.

Organisers say no advance tickets will be available, with entry operating on a first come, first served basis. Another sell-out is expected and early arrival is strongly advised.

A wide range of Welsh breweries and drinks producers will be represented, including Tenby Harbwr Brewery, Bluestone Brewing Company, Gethin’s Cider, Mantle Brewery, Gower Brewery and Core of the Poodle.

Tiny Rebel Brewery will also be serving lagers, IPAs and its new stout, Coal Drop, while Barti Rum will showcase its latest canned drinks. Prosecco and Pimm’s will also be available.

Entertainment throughout the day will be hosted by Pure West Radio, with headliners 4th Street returning to the waterfront.

The line-up also includes a DJ set from former Welsh rugby international and British and Irish Lion Josh Navidi, alongside performances from Steve Bartram, Big Chicken, Jake Taylor, Function 22 and Natalie O’Brien.

Festivalgoers will also be able to enjoy a street food zone featuring Grub Tacos, Junkyard Dogs and Reeves BBQ.

Community support

Nathan Rees, chairman of Milford Haven Round Table said: “The Beer Festival is a huge highlight for us – not just for the atmosphere, but for the impact it has.

“Every penny raised goes back into the community, funding events like our Carnival and Fireworks and supporting local causes.

“We’re also incredibly grateful to The Ascona Group for their continued sponsorship and to the Port of Milford Haven for their ongoing support as our Major Events Partner, as well as all the Beer Festival sponsors for 2026.”

Ticket information

Entry costs £25 and includes four drink tokens, a festival cup and live entertainment throughout the day.

Additional drink tokens will cost £2.50 each, with cash and card accepted.

The event is strictly over-18s only.

Organisers say there will be a 100 per cent bag search policy, with visitors strongly advised not to bring bags. Free water will be available, and dogs will not be allowed.

Entertainment

Dinosaurs set to take over Milford Waterfront

Published

5 days ago

May 5, 2026

Tom Sinclair

PREHISTORIC FUN COMES TO MILFORD HAVEN

DINOSAURS will be roaming Milford Waterfront later this month as Dinomania brings a day of prehistoric entertainment to the town.

The popular dinosaur attraction will take over the waterfront on Wednesday, May 27, with three interactive shows taking place throughout the afternoon.

Each show will last around 50 minutes and promises plenty of audience participation, prehistoric facts, and family-friendly fun.

Before the ticketed shows begin, visitors are being encouraged to keep an eye out around Milford Waterfront, where Dinomania’s dinosaurs will be out and about during a free walkabout performance between 10:30am and 11:30am.

The walkabout will give families the chance to see the dinosaurs up close and enjoy some entertainment around the waterfront before the main shows get underway.

Milford Waterfront said: “Dinomania will be taking over Milford Waterfront on Wednesday, May 27, with three exciting shows taking place throughout the afternoon.

“Each show lasts approximately 50 minutes and is packed with interactive moments and prehistoric fun.”

Tickets can be booked through the Milford Waterfront website.